Preview: Berks and Bucks Cup

19 December 2012

mkdons.com

Alan Smith will take on the role of player-manager tonight when MK Dons travel to Aylesbury FC in the re-arranged Berks and Bucks County Senior Cup quarter-final.

After the initial tie, originally scheduled for last Wednesday, was postponed due to a frozen pitch the decision was made to move the fixture back seven days to this evening as the Dons look to set up a semi-final meeting with Beaconsfield SYCOB FC.

And since last week there has been a change in the coaching line-up for the match, with forward Smith taking control of the action on the day with first team coach Ian Wright providing assistance from the touchline.

The starting XI for the game, which has already been selected by boss Karl Robinson, has also been confirmed and includes several first team players such as former England international Smith, Ian McLoughlin, Adam Chicksen, Zeli Ismail, Daniel Powell and Ibra Sekajja.

Smith will partner under-18 prospect Harry Hickford in the centre of defence with Chicksen and Under-18 captain Mason Spence the two full-backs.

Wingers Ismail and Powell will set-up either side of Giorgio Rasulo in an attacking three behind lone-striker Ibra Sekajja and in front of midfield duo of Dele Alli and Brendan Galloway.

Speaking ahead of the game, Robinson said: “The team playing in the Berks and Bucks Cup is one that should really excite our supporters because I am excited about the prospect of watching them.

“We have three England international school boys in our midfield with Giorgio, Dele and Brendan. The three have already shown they can compete at a professional level and this offers them another chance to step up and impress.

“As the manager of this Club it is my job to develop the players but also the coaching staff too. Alan is keen to get his hands dirty and while he is still a key player for us, I think this is an excellent opportunity for him to see the other side of the game with Wrighty. It is their chance to take control of the match and use their tactics while myself and Mick watch on with interest from the stands.

Kick-off at the Affinity Investments Stadium in Aylesbury is scheduled for 7.45pm and tickets are available on the gate and priced at £7 for adults, £5 for concessions and £1 for under-16s. Programmes will also be available on the day for £1.50.